8 Tips for Beginner Riders
The next generation of motorcycle riders is here and ready to burn some rubber. If you’re Gen Z, those born between 1997 and 2012, you might be of age to get your motorcycle license if you don’t have it already. Before you start shopping for your first bike or planning a long-distance ride, check out Cycle Trader’s eight tips for beginner riders.
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1. Go to Riding School
If you already have your motorcycle permit, you can start logging your on-road hours with a licensed rider. You’ll need to pass a road test before you can get your motorcycle license, and a riding school can teach you the skills you need to safely operate a motorcycle on the road. Taking a riding course might even save you money on your motorcycle insurance. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) features a list of companies that offer riding courses in your area.
2. Get the Right Gear
Before you start practicing your road skills, make sure you have the right gear to keep you safe and comfortable. A helmet is the most important piece of gear you should have anytime you mount your motorcycle. You should also invest in a quality jacket, pants, boots, gloves, and reflective gear if you ride at night. Read our previous blog for more essential gear for new bikers.
3. Choose a Beginner-Friendly Motorcycle
While it may be tempting to buy a classic cruiser or high-speed sport bike, your first motorcycle should be lightweight with moderate power. When shopping for a beginner motorcycle, pay close attention to the weight, seat height, engine displacement, and safety features, making sure these factors are compatible with your body and riding style. Want some ideas? Check out our list of the top 10 motorcycle models for beginners.
4. Learn Basic Motorcycle Maintenance
Owning a motorcycle comes with the responsibility of maintaining it. While motorcycle maintenance seems complicated, even beginners can perform some regular maintenance at home, such as:
- Checking and maintaining fluids
- Changing the oil filter
- Charging the battery
- Maintaining tire pressure
- Lubricating the drive chain
Read this blog post for more basic bike maintenance for new riders.
5. Familiarize Yourself With the Pre-Ride Inspection
Part of being a responsible motorcycle rider involves checking your bike before you ride. Fortunately, the MSF has developed a helpful pre-ride checklist. Perform the T-CLOCS pre-ride inspection and check that the following are in good working condition:
- Tires and wheels
- Controls
- Lights and electronics
- Oil and other fluids
- Chassis
- Stands
If all of these look good, then you’re ready to ride!
6. Check the Weather Before You Ride
No matter where you live, the weather can be unpredictable. A sunny day can quickly turn into a downpour, which is why it’s important to check the forecast before you head out on the road. Make sure you have a weather app on your phone so you can periodically look at the forecast when you aren’t riding. If you see signs of heavy rain and wind, as well as snow and ice, it’s a safe bet to stay off the road until the weather clears up.
7. Practice Defensive Riding
As a new rider, you should take extra precautions to keep yourself safe on your motorcycle as you’re riding among other vehicles. Start by learning some basic hand signals to help communicate with other people on the road. Make sure you’re always aware of where you are in relation to other drivers. Try to give yourself plenty of space, especially if you’re riding next to cars.
8. Ride Solo
While it’s tempting to offer friends a ride on your bike once you get your license, make sure you’ve got the hang of riding with just yourself on the bike first. When riding with a passenger, you have to adjust your riding for the extra weight which can affect your acceleration and braking. When you do think you have the skills to ride with a passenger, they should also practice safe riding and wear the proper gear.
Look for new and used mini & pocket motorcycles for sale online.
While the call of a roaring engine is exciting, there are a few key skills you should learn before you become a regular rider. Being a responsible motorcycle rider and owner will set you up for years of fun and safe riding. When you’re ready to start shopping for your first motorcycle, browse the nationwide online inventory of new and used bikes on Cycle Trader.
Arielle Patterson
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